Kenya Jumps Five Places in Latest Global Innovation Rankings

Kenya has moved to fifth place in the 2026 Global Innovation Index, rising from 102nd to 97th globally, according to WIPO. The country is ranked ninth in Sub-Saharan Africa, behind Mauritius, South Africa, Botswana, Senegal, and Rwanda. Its improvement is driven by a growing entrepreneurial and tech ecosystem, with strong performances in utility models, venture capital, and ICT exports. The government has established a multi-agency steering committee and worked with KeNIA to enhance data reporting and support innovation efforts, aiming to reach the top 50 global innovation economies.